Korean J Oral Maxillofac Radiol.  2002 Sep;32(3):123-127.

Digital contrast subtraction radiography for proximal caries diagnosis

• Kang BC
• Yoon SJ

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine whether subtraction images utilizing contrast media can improve the diagnostic performance of proximal caries diagnosis compared to conventional periapical radiographic images.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Thirty-six teeth with 57 proximal surfaces were radiographied using a size #2 RVG-ui sensor (Trophy Radiology, Marne-la-Vallee, France). The teeth immersed in water-soluble contrast media and subtraction images were taken. Each tooth was then sectioned for histologic examination. The digital radiographic images and subtraction images were examined and interpreted by three dentists for proximal caries. The results of the proximal caries diagnosis were then verified with the results of the histologic examination.
RESULTS
The proximal caries sensitivity using digital subtraction radiography was significantly higher than simply examining a single digital radiograph. The sensitivity of the proximal dentinal carious lesion when analyzed with the subtraction radiograph and the radiograph together was higher than with the subtraction radiograph or the radiograph alone.
CONCLUSION
The use of subtraction radiography with contrast media may be useful for detecting proximal dentinal carious lesions.

Keyword

dental caries; subtraction technique; radiography; dental; digital; contrast media

MeSH Terms

Contrast Media
Dental Caries
Dentin
Dentists
Diagnosis*
Humans
Radiography*
Subtraction Technique
Tooth
Contrast Media